Press releases
1 June 2006
Consumer Direct's Guide to Avoiding World Cup TV Misery
For those fans who can’t make it to the World Cup in Germany, the next best thing will be watching it on the very latest TV from the comfort of the sofa. But as retailers across the country gear up for a rise in sales of TVs and other home entertainment systems, Consumer Direct is advising fans to brush up on their consumer rights before making that big purchase.
Consumer Direct research shows that audiovisuals were the 5th most complained about purchase by Londoners in 2005, so it has come up with the following list of things to consider when buying the dream TV:
Before purchasing:
- Always check out what is on the market before buying.
- Research the product well before handing over your hard earned cash.
- Check what after care service is offered.
TV purchases are often made via mail order/internet. Check out these tips:
- You may be able to cancel your order at any time up to seven days after receipt of the goods.
- If you have already paid for the goods, the seller must refund your money within 30 days of you cancelling the agreement.
Purchases are often made on credit. Check out these tips:
- Make sure you can commit to making regular payments for a fixed period.
- Shop around. There are many financial products available.
- If you enter an agreement, check terms and conditions carefully.
- If the price is more than £100, the credit company may be equally responsible for faulty goods.
And if things go wrong? Follow Consumer Direct’s advice:
- Stop using it. Check there really is a fault - read the instructions!
- Locate your proof of purchase. Your rights still apply if you lose your receipt, although alternative proof of purchase may be required such as a credit card bill or bank statement.
- If you have only used it a few times, you may be entitled to a refund for a fault, alternatively you may ask for a replacement.
- If the goods can not be replaced or repaired you are entitled to a refund.
Case Study
Mrs Angela Cook contacted Consumer Direct to find out what her consumer rights were after her TV became faulty.
Mrs Cook said: “My TV became faulty 12 months after I bought it. I called an engineer to get it repaired under the warranty but after several attempts it could not be fixed. The engineer told me he would send it back to the manufacturers”.
She added: “After 6 weeks without my TV I contacted Consumer Direct. Following the Consumer Adviser’s practical consumer advice I was able to write a recorded delivery letter to the engineer quoting the relevant consumer Act and dates. The engineer did return my TV, but it appeared to have further damage! I contacted Consumer Direct again and as a result of the advice I received a replacement TV! Consumer Direct were a great help to me with sorting out my problem.”
For further advice call Consumer Direct on 08454 040506 or visit the website at www.consumerdirect.gov.uk
